Maaza Mengiste's Beneath The Lions Gaze

One might say that throughout the world, there are dark ages. However, problematic times ultimately bring peace. It is no secret that there is war, dictatorship, and death throughout the world. In the novel “Beneath the Lions Gaze”, written by Maaza Mengiste, the author tells a story of a historically and violent movement taken place in the country of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 1974. Yonus, a prominent student and his family go through unimaginable hardships facing death, starvation, and most importantly finding their true selves and what they stand for. In this essay the author will list the key passages in order of importance from greatest to least. Yonus a brother, father, and husband develops the theme of self-discovery, and unlocks the reader’s understanding of what finding ones purpose in life really is.
1. “Yonus knew what he

“Yonus waited until the soldiers curved into the bend of the road and disappeared, and the anthems of the frightened marchers faded into the sky, then he walked back to Berhane and lifted him in his arms and hugged him. He cradled his head, upping it so it wouldn’t loll back, then he carried the boy back to the car and laid him in the backseat, tucked under a frayed blanket he hadn’t known was there” (262).

This passage concentrates on the heroic aspect of “Beneath the Lions Gaze”, the readers can see Yonus stepping up to do a selfless act. Yonus starts to risk his own life, knowing that he could possibly be killed for moving the young boy’s body. This passage is important because it shows the tone of parts of the novel. How can someone do such disgusting acts against a child? Moreover, will there be any justice in Berhane’s death? Yonus’s actions prove change is possible, especially in the worst of circumstances.

5. “Yonus reared back, yanked Dawit by the shirt, threw him to the ground, and Knelt on his chest. He had a choke hold on Dawit’s collar, jerking him up till they met face-to-face. “Am I a coward to you?” he hissed”